The 2026 Section 1 flag football season has drawn to a close, marking a significant year for several local teams. Two prominent programs, Westlake/Briarcliff and Yorktown, distinguished themselves by reaching the state semifinals. Yorktown notably captured its inaugural Class B state championship, a testament to their dedication and skill. Mamaroneck, the Class A victor, also showcased impressive talent, making it to the regional final. In recognition of the athletes' hard work and the coaches' guidance, the all-section teams and individual accolades for Classes A, B, and C have been formally announced, as determined by the coaches themselves.
This season saw intense competition across all divisions. Westlake/Briarcliff's journey to the state semifinals in Class C was particularly memorable, culminating in a narrow overtime defeat to Shoreham-Wading River. Their pursuit of a state title was a highlight, showcasing resilience and determination throughout their campaign. Similarly, Yorktown's triumphant run to the Class B state championship underscored their dominance and strategic play, culminating in a well-deserved victory over Fayetteville-Manlius.
Beyond the team achievements, individual excellence was also celebrated. The Class A division recognized Hope Ziogas from New Rochelle as Player of the Year, Chase Harris of Arlington as Offensive Player of the Year, and Sarah Sherman from Mamaroneck as Defensive Player of the Year. Mamaroneck's Anthony Vitti was honored as Class A Coach of the Year, reflecting his leadership in guiding the team to success. Noteworthy selections in Class A included Talia Arazos, Gia Asen, Leah Brown, and Reese Newman from Scarsdale; Jamie Gemmel, Chase Harris, Gianna Martin, and Jayde Triunfo from Arlington; Maddie Cashman and Sarah Sherman from Mamaroneck; Daniella Mair and JNylah Pierre from North Rockland; and Myriam Areche from Yonkers, with Naula Isa receiving an honorable mention.
In Class B, Tappan Zee's Eve Girardi was named Player of the Year, while Maria Garofalo from Mahopac earned Offensive Player of the Year. Yorktown's Sydney Soliz was recognized as Defensive Player of the Year, and Mike Rescigno, also from Yorktown, received the Coach of the Year award. The Class B all-section team featured Stephanie Douglas, Eva Monaco, and Sydney Soliz from Yorktown; Eve Girardi, Ela Sabatini, and Nina Vasquez from Tappan Zee; Maria Garofalo, Niamh Kelleher, and Fiona Kelleher from Mahopac; Avery DuDones and Sofia Rosamilia from Brewster; Caroline Leonard and Alexa Marrico from Lakeland; Natalie D'Ippolito from Somers; Maleya Farmer from Peekskill; Taylor Garcia from Walter Panas; Sydney Goodman from Horace Greeley; Alexa Keller from Eastchester; Aria Martin from Poughkeepsie; Riley New from Fox Lane; and Lily Pade from Nyack.
For Class C, Juliana DiMarino of Westlake/Briarcliff was celebrated as Player of the Year, with Lowell Robinson, also from Westlake/Briarcliff, earning the Coach of the Year distinction. The Class C all-section honorees included Juliana DiMarino, Julianna Nigrelli, and Mar Rivera-Font from Westlake/Briarcliff; Charlotte Gaspar, Maria Ribeiro, and Kate Stratton from Hendrick Hudson; Blaze Connolly and Summer Scrocca from Putnam Valley; Charlotte Kennedy and Samantha Pagano from Bronxville; Avionna Moore from Woodlands; Elise O'Brien from Ardsley; Emerson Pace from Byram Hills; and Mya Ustares from Dobbs Ferry. These selections highlight the depth of talent and the commitment to excellence demonstrated across all levels of Section 1 flag football this year.
The season's close brought both memorable victories and fierce competition, underscoring the growing popularity and skill within Section 1 flag football. The recognition of these outstanding athletes and coaches through the all-section teams serves to honor their hard work, sportsmanship, and significant contributions to the sport. Their achievements set a high standard for future seasons and inspire continued growth in the flag football community.
